Style A Knit Tank Top: Versatile Ways To Wear It

A knit tank top is a versatile garment that can be styled in various ways to suit different seasons and occasions. Whether you knitted it yourself or purchased it, a tank top can be dressed up or down, making it a valuable addition to your wardrobe.

For a casual look, you can pair it with denim shorts, sandals, and a floppy straw hat for a picnic-ready outfit. If you're aiming for something more formal, try wearing it over a statement blouse, wide-leg trousers, and heeled ankle boots. Layering is also a great option—tank tops can be worn over Breton tops, striped cotton jerseys, or crisp cotton shirts for a modern twist.

Don't be afraid to experiment with different fabrics and textures. Blending materials like velvet, tweed, and shiny shoes can create an interesting and unique ensemble. Additionally, consider the weather and your comfort—a knit tank top can be layered under jackets or cardigans during colder months and paired with light garments like linen pants or an oversized button-down shirt in warmer seasons.

The versatility of a knit tank top lies in its ability to be dressed up or down, making it a staple piece that can be adapted to suit your personal style and the occasion.

How to Wear a Knit Tank Top

Layering with jackets and cardigans

A knit tank top is a versatile piece that can be styled in various ways and is perfect for layering. Here are some tips for layering with jackets and cardigans:

• Denim Jacket: A classic denim jacket is a great layering piece over a knit tank top. For a casual look, pair your tank with a denim jacket, jeans, and sneakers. You can also experiment with double denim by wearing a denim jacket over the tank and pairing it with blue jeans in a different shade.
• Chore Coat: For a more utilitarian look, try layering your knit tank top with a chore coat. This boxy, unlined jacket is perfect for accommodating layers underneath. Add a chunky turtleneck or a utility vest for extra warmth and functionality.
• Trucker Jacket: The trucker jacket is a versatile piece that can be worn year-round. During colder months, layer your knit tank top with a trucker jacket and a sweatshirt, fisherman knit, or hoodie. For a true workwear-inspired outfit, go for double denim with your favorite pair of jeans.
• Wind-stopper and Parka: For a functional layering combination, pair a wind-stopper jacket with an arctic parka. Opt for a wind-stopper without a hood and a versatile color like black or navy. Then, layer it under a parka to stay cozy and stylish.
• Cardigans: Cardigans are a great way to layer with a knit tank top. Go for an oversized cardigan in a contrasting color, or try a long cardigan with a simple tank and puffer vest for a stylish and functional look. You can also pair a thin cardigan with a tank and a puffer jacket for a sporty chic vibe.
• Blazers: For a classy and chic look, layer your knit tank top with a bold blazer. A plaid blazer paired with a thin sweater or a tank and jeans is always a stylish choice for fall. You can also try an oversized blazer for a more relaxed feel and to accommodate more layers underneath.
• Tweed and Embellished Jackets: If you want to add some texture and glamour to your outfit, layer your knit tank top with a tweed or embellished jacket. This combination is perfect for transitioning your tank top from day to night.
• Leather Jacket: For an edgier look, pair your knit tank top with a leather jacket. This combination is perfect for transitioning seasons and can be styled with jeans and boots or a flowy skirt and knee-high boots.

Styling with jeans

A knit tank top is a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down, making it a perfect addition to any wardrobe. Here are some ways to style a knit tank top with jeans:

• For a casual-chic look, pair your knit tank top with high-waisted jeans and sneakers. This combination is comfortable and stylish, perfect for everyday wear.
• To elevate your look, try layering your knit tank top under a blazer. This creates a more polished and sophisticated outfit.
• For a modern twist, opt for jeans with a baggy or wide-leg fit. This type of denim pairs well with a fitted knit tank top and creates a stylish silhouette.
• You can also pair your knit tank top with straight-leg jeans for a classic and timeless look. Add minimalist black accessories, such as a sleek belt and shoes, to complete the outfit.
• Experiment with different colours! A red knit tank top will stand out when paired with grey baggy jeans and white sneakers. Or, for a more subtle look, go for a black tank top with straight blue jeans and black slingback pumps.
• To create a nod to modern-day Celine, team a knit tank top with indigo or faded jeans and a denim shirt. This combination is both stylish and versatile.

Knitting patterns

There are a variety of knitting patterns available for tank tops, and many of them are free. Here are some options for knitting patterns that you can use to make your own knit tank top:

Free Knitting Patterns

• Easy sleeveless tank top with a ribbed pattern designed by Lion Brand.
• Square neck tank with a unique neckline construction designed by Kaitlin Barthold for Originally Lovely.
• Sleeveless top knit with a 2-row repeat Eyelet Stripe in a long tunic length designed by Lorna Miser for Caron.
• Sleeveless tank top with a quilted lattice bodice designed by Carol Balogh.
• Sleeveless top in 3 different lengths knit with a 2-row repeat designed by Patons.
• Sleeveless top knit in 2 identical pieces with 1-row repeat mesh lace inserts in the front, back, and sides designed by Irina Poludnenko.
• Sleeveless top knit in a 12-row repeat floral lace pattern designed by Laura Matthews for Cascade Yarns.
• Sleeveless tank top knit in stockinette stitch with a ribbed edging on the bottom, neck, and sleeves designed by Cheryl Murray.
• Sleeveless tank top with a single cable at the neckline designed by Purl Soho.
• Tunic-length sleeveless top with a deep V in the front and back designed by Therese Chynoweth.
• Sleeveless top knit with a 4-row repeat lace stitch designed by Cheryl Beckerich for Cascade Yarns.
• Easy sleeveless top knit in 2 identical pieces with an Art Deco-inspired detail at the neckline in the front and back in half fisherman's rib designed by Alexandra Tavel of Two of Wands.
• Sleeveless top knit with leaf lace and two leaves on a cable stem at the shoulder designed by Moira Engel of Universal Yarn.
• Sleeveless top with flowing cables, a touch of lace, and twisted stitches designed by Rachel Brockman.
• Simple stockinette stitch in cool cotton with a twist when you tie the back straps into a reef knot and an unusual picot hem designed by Sarah Wilson.
• A simple and quick knit in chunky yarn designed by Bernat and recommended for beginners.
• Lace top in sizes S to 5XL.
• Asymmetrical tank designed by the Berroco Design Team.

Paid Knitting Patterns

• Flattering A-line sleeveless top with gorgeous lace and an hourglass pattern designed by Margaret Holzmann.
• Lace and cables create a brocade fabric for this feminine shell sleeveless top designed by Jennifer Hagan.
• The Portico Tank features peekaboo cutouts and crisscross straps that flow into deep ribbing that runs down the spine designed by Irina Anikeeva.
• A year-round wardrobe staple with feminine detailing and a comfortable fit designed by Kaitlin Blasing of OriginallyLovely.
• Sleeveless lace pullover designed by Deborah Newton, which is one of the 23 patterns in Warm Weather Knits.

In addition, you can find knitting patterns for tank tops on Etsy and Ravelry. For example, the Bee Mine Top by Melanie Reinert on Ravelry or the Tip Top Tank and Golden Oak Tank patterns recommended by a user on Reddit.

How to wear in summer

Knit tank tops are a versatile addition to your wardrobe and can be worn in summer in a variety of ways. Here are some tips and outfit ideas for styling a knit tank top in the warmer months:

• Keep it lightweight: Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics such as cotton, linen, or silk. Look for fine-gauge knits and avoid thick, heavy materials.
• Experiment with different styles: Knit tank tops come in various styles, including halter necks, crop tops, and bandeaus. These styles are perfect for everyday summer wear.
• Layer up: Knit tank tops are excellent for layering. Try pairing yours with a Breton top, a striped cotton jersey roll-neck, a denim shirt, or a crisp cotton shirt.
• Play with textures: Don't be afraid to mix and match different fabrics and textures. For a unique look, pair your knit tank top with embellished or patterned fabrics, such as velvet or tweed.
• Beat the heat: If you're concerned about staying cool, go for a sleeveless knit tank top. This style will keep you comfortable even in warm weather.
• Try different colours: Experiment with different colours to suit your taste. Go for classic neutrals like white, cream, and beige, or make a statement with bolder hues.
• Accessorise: Have fun with accessories! Style your knit tank top with scarves, hats, necklaces, earrings, or a stylish bag.
• Choose the right footwear: While you can pair your knit tank top with boots, slip-on sandals, flip-flops, or heels are perfect for a summery look.
• Minimalistic look: Pair a knit tank with loose linen pants and neutral slip-on shoes for a chic and comfortable ensemble.
• Beach outfit: For a day at the beach, team a knit halter top with linen pants and accessorise with funky sunglasses and oversized hoop earrings.
• Casual summer style: Throw on a knit tank top with mid-rise utility shorts and Birkenstocks or sandals. Don't forget to add some accessories like a hat or a crossbody bag.
• Evening outfit: Dress up your knit tank top for a night out by pairing it with a statement blouse, wide-leg trousers, and heeled ankle boots.
• Denim days: Create a casual yet stylish look by pairing your knit tank top with indigo or faded jeans and a denim shirt.

How to wear in winter

Knit tank tops are a versatile piece of clothing that can be styled in various ways to create cosy and stylish winter outfits. Here are some tips on how to wear a knit tank top during the colder months:

Layering

Layering is a key technique to wearing a knit tank top in winter. Start with a base layer of a long-sleeved shirt or a snug turtleneck underneath your tank top. This provides extra warmth while still allowing your tank top to be seen. You can also try layering your tank top over a simple white tee, adding texture with an embellished, lace, or loud print. Alternatively, opt for a colourful ribbed knit under a simple black tank top.

Outerwear

For outerwear, pair your knit tank top with a cosy cardigan, sweater, or jacket. These pieces will keep you warm and add texture and dimension to your look. Try a chunky knit cardigan or an oversized sweater over your tank top. For a more sophisticated look, style your tank top under a blazer or a leather jacket.

Bottoms

When it comes to bottoms, knit tank tops can be styled with a variety of options. For a timeless look, pair your tank top with jeans. For a more relaxed outfit, tuck your tank into some relaxed denim or cargo trousers. To elevate your look, opt for leather trousers or a leather pencil skirt. You can also try high-waisted trousers or wide-leg jeans.

Accessories

Accessories are essential for adding warmth and style to your winter outfit. Scarves, gloves, and hats will keep you cosy while complementing your tank top. Add a statement necklace or earrings to elevate your look. Complete your outfit with winter-friendly footwear like boots or booties, and you're ready to step out in style.

Colours and Prints

When it comes to colours, neutrals like black, grey, beige, and white are versatile and can be easily mixed and matched. Add pops of colour or patterns through your accessories or outer layers. Try a colourful scarf, gloves, or a hat, or layer a patterned cardigan or jacket over your neutral tank top. Embrace seasonal prints like plaid or fair isle for a cosy and festive look.

With these tips and tricks, you can confidently style your knit tank tops throughout the winter, creating cosy and fashionable outfits.

Frequently asked questions